Summary
Operating as a general contractor in Savannah, Chatham County requires both state and local licensing compliance. Contractors must obtain a Georgia state license for projects over $2,500, which involves passing examinations and demonstrating experience, plus register locally with Chatham County for business operations. The permit process through the Chatham County-Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission requires detailed documentation and can take 2-4 weeks depending on project complexity. Insurance requirements include general liability and workers compensation coverage, with many projects requiring higher coverage limits than state minimums. Success in this market requires understanding both coastal construction challenges and historic district regulations that may apply to many Savannah properties.
License Requirements
In Georgia, general contractors must obtain a state license through the Georgia State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors if performing work over $2,500. The license requires passing a business law exam and a trade examination. Applicants must have 2 years of verifiable construction experience and submit financial statements. In Savannah/Chatham County, contractors must also register with the local business license office and obtain a Chatham County business license. State licenses must be renewed every 2 years with continuing education requirements (6 hours).
Permit Requirements
Building permits are required through Chatham County-Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission for most construction projects. Applications must include detailed plans, structural calculations for major work, and proof of contractor licensing. Typical processing time is 10-15 business days for residential projects, 20-30 days for commercial. Permit fees range from $50-200 for minor work to $500-2,000+ for major projects based on valuation. Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits may be required separately.
Insurance Requirements
Georgia requires general contractors to carry minimum $50,000 general liability insurance. Chatham County may require higher coverage ($100,000-$500,000) for public projects. Workers' compensation insurance is mandatory if employing others, with minimum coverage based on payroll. Many clients require $1 million general liability coverage. Surety bonds may be required for public projects or specific developments, typically 10% of contract value.
Typical Cost Ranges
Typical general contracting projects in Savannah range from $5,000-25,000 for home additions and renovations, $15,000-50,000 for kitchen and bathroom remodels, $100,000-300,000 for custom home construction, and $25,000-75,000 for commercial tenant improvements. Labor costs average $35-65 per hour for skilled trades. Material costs reflect regional pricing with moderate transportation costs to coastal Georgia.
Compliance Checklist
- ✓Obtain Georgia state contractor license through State Licensing Board
- ✓Register business and obtain Chatham County business license
- ✓Secure required insurance coverage (general liability and workers comp)
- ✓Apply for specific building permits through Chatham County-Savannah MPC
- ✓Ensure all subcontractors are properly licensed and insured
- ✓Complete required continuing education for license renewal
- ✓Register with Georgia Department of Labor for workers compensation
- ✓Comply with local building codes and zoning requirements
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